🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-2 / RX-3 Model Codes: RX-2: SA22C (for coupe/sedan, though often referred to by its specific internal codings); RX-3: S102A, S124A, S132A Platform: Mazda Rotary Platform Generation Generation Designation: First Generation RX-2, First Generation RX-3 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: Compact/subcompact sports coupe and sedan targeting performance-oriented buyers and enthusiasts Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Datsun 240Z/260Z, Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, Honda Civic, smaller European sports coupes of the era Key Features Unique Selling Proposition: Rotary engine technology offering compact size, smooth operation, and high power-to-weight ratio for its class Design Philosophy: Stylish, compact, and sporty design with a focus on driver engagement Target Audience Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking unique engineering, a sporty driving experience, and a classic Japanese performance car 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Model Years Covered: 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978 Body Styles Covered: Coupe, Sedan, Wagoon (RX-3) Regions Covered: All markets (North America, Europe, Japan, Australia etc.) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 800-1200 pages (approximate for comprehensive coverage) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine System: Rotary engine (12A, 13B - where applicable), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control Transmission System: Manual transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed), automatic transmissions (if applicable), clutch operation, drive axles Brake System: Disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear), hydraulic system, parking brake Suspension Steering: Front independent suspension (MacPherson strut), rear leaf springs/solid axle, steering gearbox, power steering (if equipped) Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations Body Chassis: Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis components, corrosion protection HVAC System: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (if factory equipped), component diagnosis and repair Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks), fluid level checks and top-ups, lubrication points Repair Procedures: Component removal, disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and installation for all major systems Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and solutions Diagnostic Procedures: Engine compression testing, ignition timing adjustment, fuel system pressure checks Technical Specifications: Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications Technical Depth Technical Depth: Complete overhaul and rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and major mechanical components 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable (depending on PDF creation) Print Quality Print Quality Recommendation: High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (PDF Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (PDF Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Mazda Rotary (Wankel) Engine Displacement Codes: 12A (1146cc), 13B (1308cc - may appear in later RX-3 variants) Rotor Housing Material: Cast Iron (early), Chrome-plated Aluminum (later variations) Apex Seals: Felt seal with carbon/metal inserts (early), Bronze or Ceramic composites (later upgrades/variations) Performance Horsepower Output 12A: Approx. 90-110 hp (depending on market and emissions regulations) Torque Output 12A: Approx. 100-115 lb-ft (depending on market and emissions regulations) Redline Rpm: Typically 6500-7000 RPM Fuel System Fuel Induction: Carburetor (2-barrel Hitachi, Mikuni, or Solex common), later models may feature fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on market, typically 91+ RON) Engine Maintenance Oil Type Recommendation: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SF or SG rated, or equivalent) Oil Capacity: Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 Liters) including oil filter Spark Plug Type: NGK BR8ES-11 or equivalent (specific to engine variant and tuning) Ignition Timing Spec: Typically 5-10 degrees BTDC (specific to engine model, check manual) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (introduced later in production), 3-speed Automatic Features Clutch Type: Dry single plate with diaphragm spring Transmission Fluid Type: GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 2.5 quarts (2.4 Liters) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: RX-2: Approx. 97.0 inches (2460 mm); RX-3: Approx. 94.9 inches (2410 mm) (Coupe/Sedan) Length: RX-2: Approx. 167.9 inches (4265 mm); RX-3: Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm) (Coupe) Width: RX-2: Approx. 65.0 inches (1650 mm); RX-3: Approx. 64.0 inches (1625 mm) Height: RX-2: Approx. 52.2 inches (1325 mm); RX-3: Approx. 51.8 inches (1315 mm) (Coupe) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1135 kg), depending on body style and equipment Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by model, typically around 3000-3300 lbs Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4x110mm Standard Tire Size: 165SR13, 175/70SR13 (common) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Information: Limited official crash test data available for this era; vehicle design predates modern safety standards Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard); some later models or trims may have had front ventilated discs Suspension Stability: Front MacPherson struts, rear leaf springs contribute to roadholding Passive Features Seat Belts: Lap belts (front), some models may have had optional shoulder belts Body Structure: Unit-body construction, rudimentary crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM...
Approx. 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1135 kg), depending on body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 3000-3300 lbs
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110mm
Standard Tire Size:
165SR13, 175/70SR13 (common)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Information:
Limited official crash test data available for this era; vehicle design predates modern safety standards
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard); some later models or trims may have had front ventilated discs
Suspension Stability:
Front MacPherson struts, rear leaf springs contribute to roadholding
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Lap belts (front), some models may have had optional shoulder belts
Body Structure:
Unit-body construction, rudimentary crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, optional AM/FM/Cassette player
Gauges:
Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, oil pressure light/gauge
Driver Assistance
Emission Controls:
Early emission control systems may include air injection pumps and catalytic converters (on later models/markets).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No factory-integrated electronic connectivity features common in modern vehicles)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect every 6,000 miles (9,600 km), replace as needed
Spark Plug Inspection Replacement:
Inspect every 12,000 miles (19,000 km), replace as needed
Ignition Timing Adjustment:
Check and adjust every 12,000 miles (19,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (glycol-based)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Grease Type:
Lithium-based multipurpose grease (NLGI #2)
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
Common issue in rotary engines, requiring rebuild if worn excessively. Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are critical.
Carburetor Tuning:
Can be sensitive to adjustments, requiring periodic tuning for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil for lubrication of apex seals. Excessive consumption indicates potential seal wear.
Chassis Corrosion:
Like many vehicles of this era, susceptible to rust, especially in areas with harsh winters or high humidity.
Vacuum Lines:
Aging rubber vacuum hoses can crack and leak, affecting engine performance and emissions. Regular inspection and replacement are recommended.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mazda's pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine, aiming for compact, smooth, and high-revving powertrains
Model Evolution
Rx2 Introduction:
Introduced in 1970 as a successor to the Mazda R100, positioned as a compact sports coupe/sedan.
Rx3 Introduction:
Introduced in 1971, slightly smaller and more affordable than the RX-2, also available in coupe, sedan, and wagon forms. Often seen as a spiritual successor to the R100 as well.
Engine Development:
Both models primarily utilized the 12A rotary engine, with some later RX-3 variants potentially receiving the larger 13B. Evolution focused on improving reliability and emissions control.
Production
Production Period:
RX-2: 1970-1974; RX-3: 1971-1978
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Sales Performance:
Moderate success, particularly in export markets like Australia and North America, building Mazda's reputation for rotary performance and unique engineering.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Success:
RX-2 and RX-3 achieved considerable success in motorsport, particularly in touring car racing and rallying, especially in Australia.
Rotary Recognition:
Both models cemented Mazda's reputation as a manufacturer of innovative and performance-oriented vehicles thanks to their rotary engines.